Martha’s Approach to Doula Work

Martha had always envisioned a life as a school teacher, and birth work was nowhere on her radar as her ideal career. But after two vastly different births, one in Japan and one in the US, Martha could not get the idea of being a doula out of her head. She transitioned out of the traditional classroom and into birthwork in 2019, though she jokes she’s still a teacher, but her students now are way more invested in their learning since they know the final exam is quite intense. Because of her background in education, evidence-based information is always at the center of her work with clients, making sure they have a good understanding of the birth process and their options for each step of the way.

Martha is also committed to supporting the whole family through the birth process. She takes great care to learn and understand the needs and concerns for all members of the birth team, including those giving birth and their partners. She enjoys helping couples find their own unique way through the birthing journey on their way to becoming parents and a new family. Martha also understands that birth brings a lot of uncertainty and fear, which can often bring up anxiety both for the person giving birth and their partner. She is skilled at providing grounding and supportive techniques so even the most anxious parent can approach the birth of their child with confidence.

Martha’s Background

Martha grew up in the Pacific Northwest and is thrilled to be back here, even thrilled about the rain, after traveling around the world. She spent 10 years as a school teacher both in Japan and in the US and enjoys seeing that spark of excitement when students understand something new. She enjoys life on the Eastside with her husband, a university professor, her three children, and their cat. When Martha isn’t supporting clients, she enjoys knitting, playing board games and tabletop RPGs with friends and family, and exploring the many wonderful parks the area has to offer.